The Boffin

This poem won 3rd prize in the “Inner City Life” Literary Competition 2004
 and was inspired by a visit to Boffin's Books in 2004. I have sadly learnt 
today the iconic Perth bookstore will close after serving our community 
for 37 years, on 6th June 2026.   

The Boffin 

bookshops are like lovers
they numb in black & white
then seduce you with colour 

titillate and tempt your soul
until you finally let go
find the courage to close

the book ~ pages which leave
you gasping ~ the breath of air
on your face feels like a slap

Frances Macaulay Forde © 2004